With a highly anticipated comeback gig for one of the UK's all-time Indie heavyweights, Catfish and the Bottlemen, about to ensue, the adrenaline in the packed-out Sefton Park was palpable. The crowd, ranging from fresh-faced 16-year-olds to mid-20s fans who were clearly in their Indie-loving prime when the band dominated the Indie Rock scene between 2016-2019, was buzzing with excitement.
Sefton Park, with its 40,000 capacity, had sold out months in advance. Liverpool’s infamous Lark Lane was teeming with a sea of people, and despite some slight drizzle, nothing could dampen the spirits of the crowd eager to enjoy a few pints on this Thursday night.
First up was Liverpool’s own The Mysterines, fronted by the powerful Lia Metcalfe, who embodies female empowerment with her incredible vocal range and commanding presence. Although the crowd were still filling in, the four-piece delivered a smashing set, setting high expectations for the next act.
Sundara Karma followed with an appropriately nostalgic performance. Despite having had the same lineup since 2011 and a setlist that hadn’t changed much, tracks like 'Loveblood' got everyone singing along as if they were the latest hits. Their set was a pleasant trip down memory lane, a fitting warm-up before the main act took the stage.
Frontman Van McCann and , the two remaining original members, were joined by a few new faces.
Although a little late, the moment that the two remaining members, frontman Van McCann and guitarist Benji Blakeway, took centre stage accompanied by a few new faces to the familiar sounds of 'Helter Skelter', the excitement reached a fever pitch. Opening with 'Longshot', the crowd erupted, and it was clear that Catfish and the Bottlemen were back in full force. McCann’s commanding presence, reminiscent of icons like Liam Gallagher, captivated the audience as he engaged in a string of energetic antics, swinging his microphone around and throwing his huge head of hair up and down.
The opening quartet of songs, including fan favourites like 'Kathleen', 'Soundcheck' and 'Pacifier' set the tone for an electrifying night. McCann’s interactions with the crowd, filled with declarations of "Liverpool, we are f****ng back" were a testament to the band’s genuine enjoyment and newfound energy after their hiatus.
The performance of 'Fallout' was a standout moment, with the crowd passionately singing along to "See I, I was a test-tube baby that’s why nobody gets me” which even elicited giggles from the band. Anyone who had seen Catfish and the Bottlemen in their prime would recognise the raw emotion and sheer talent that McCann brings to the stage, solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act.
As the band performed '7' the crowd erupted into a singalong, marking the pinnacle of the evening. The audience passionately echoed, "And I'd beg you, but you know I'm never home. And I'd love you, but I need another year alone" highlighting just why Liverpool was the ideal setting for their victorious comeback. The energy was palpable, making it a night that will be long remembered.
Catfish and the Bottlemen wrapped up the show with their signature song 'Cocoon' delivering a performance that thrilled fans new and old. Van McCann's sincere declaration, “Liverpool, we love you” as the final note played, signalled the triumphant return of the band. Their resurgence will feature two more major open-air concerts in Cardiff and Edinburgh. Capping off the summer with a headline spot, the band will take centre stage at Reading & Leeds festival, truly enhancing a huge comeback story.
Words - Lucy Holden
Photo - Nathan Cole
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